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Choosing a Baby Carrier

How to find a baby carrier that’s the best fit for you and your baby

by: Elizabeth Pantley

aby carriers can be an invaluable accessory during the first year of your baby's life. Here are the three main styles to choose from and how to find the best fit for you and your baby.

Slings

Made of fabric, they "sling" sash-style over your shoulder to hold your baby in front of you. Here are some of the benefits:

• A sling is perfect early on, when your newborn needs to be held often in your arms, as opposed to being pushed at arm's length in a stroller.

• A sling is an excellent way to carry your baby around the house because it keeps him happy while leaving your arms free for daily tasks.

• Sling carriers are multi-purpose. You can use them to carry your baby, to create privacy for breastfeeding, and to cover your baby when he's sleeping.

• Slings are great when a stroller would be inconvenient, such as up stairs, through large crowds or narrow aisle ways–or when you'll be going in and out of the car frequently.

• You can use a sling right up through toddlerhood, when little legs get tired of walking.

Note: Slings can be confusing to use at first, and your baby can slide out of the bottom if not positioned correctly. Try to find an experienced sling-user, a how-to video, or a knowledgeable sales clerk to help you master the art of baby slinging.

Front packs

Front pack carriers are similar to slings in use, but are more complex in structure. They have a seat that attaches to the front of you with straps that crisscross behind you. Here's what you need to know about front packs:

• The benefits are similar to many of those of slings, such as their light weight, portability, and the fact that you can carry your baby while keeping your arms and hands free.

• Choose one that allows you the option to carry your baby facing inward or outward.

• Settling the baby into and out of the carrier requires more steps than a sling does.

• Front packs are better suited to a baby who is strong enough to hold his head upright.  

Backpacks

A back carrier is similar to a camping backpack. It has a seat for your baby that attaches to your back with a frame and straps that cross over your shoulders. A few things to know about backpacks:

• They're perfect for an older baby or toddler who loves to look around and be carried high on your shoulders.

• Many backpacks have pouches for holding supplies and some have a canopy for inclement weather or sun protection.

• Getting a backpack off (and putting it on) are typically two-person tasks.

• Backpacks are best for an older baby who can sit up well.

• They're great for an all-day trip, such as hiking, shopping or visiting an amusement park.

How to decide which carrier to use

No single baby carrier is perfect for all parents. Many people actually begin with one type and move on to another when their babies get older.

First, think about how you plan to use a carrier. Will you use it primarily at home, instead of a stroller while away from home, or both? Do you already have a stroller, or must your carrier fill all your baby-carrying needs? Read the package information (or talk to other parents who own a similar carrier) to learn which purposes it serves best and to determine if it matches your needs.

Try carriers on-either at the store, or with a friend who owns one. Actually putting your baby in the carrier will give you the best idea as to fit, but if you are shopping without your baby (or don't have your baby yet) try using a stuffed animal from the toy department. 

Five things to consider when purchasing a carrier

1. Fit for you. Is it comfortable and does it fit your size and body type? Can you carry the baby without strain?

2. Care. Is it machine-washable or easy to wipe clean?

3. Flexibility. Can you carry your baby in various positions?

4. Adjustability. Can it be tightened or adjusted to fit you when you are at home in indoor clothing or outside wearing a coat? Can you adjust it easily for use by others?

5. Adaptability. Will it work for your baby now as well as six months from now? Do you like the style and will you enjoy wearing it?

Meet our expert:

Elizabeth Pantley is a mother of four and the best-selling author of eight parenting books, including: The No-Cry Sleep Solution and The No-Cry Discipline Solution. She is also a contributing author to The Successful Child with Dr. William Sears. Based in Washington, Pantley is the president of Better Beginnings Inc. (a family resource and education company) and a parenting expert for a variety of publications including: Parents, Parenting and Redbook.